Mission Continues

Spirit of Spring Gala honors 30 years of healing and hope in Houston

The ballroom at The Houstonian welcomed more than 400 guests gathered for the Spirit of Spring 30th Anniversary Gala, celebrating the enduring mission of The Children’s Assessment Center (The CAC). The evening proved both a tribute to three decades of service and a forward-looking pledge, culminating in a fundraising total that exceeded expectations.

$Children\u2019s Assessment Center Gala 2025$

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Kasteena Parikh, Lisa Malosky, and Sam Parikh.

Chaired by philanthropic duo Sam and Kasteena Parikh, the night began with a swirl of activity. A lively social hour offered a kaleidoscope of attractions — raffles, a photobooth, a caricature artist, and coveted wine and jewelry pulls — designed to loosen up wallets while lifting spirits. It was a lighthearted start to an evening rooted in something far more profound: the protection and healing of children affected by sexual abuse in Harris County.

Former sports broadcaster Lisa Malosky emceed the program, guiding the audience through stirring testimonials and community honors. More than 20 individuals and partner organizations were spotlighted for their unwavering support of The CAC’s work over the past 30 years, a testament to the collaborative muscle it takes to protect the most vulnerable.

“We are grateful to our dedicated community partners and individual supporters for their unwavering belief in our mission, collaboration and support of our services,” said Kerry McCracken, executive director. “Our vital work can only be sustained through the generosity of all those who deeply care about the children and families we serve. With their help, we can continue to bring hope to children who have experienced sexual abuse in Houston.”

In attendance were Russell and Glenda Gordy, Christopher DeClaire, Elaine Stolte, Honorable Ed Emmett, Ken and Kathy Wells, Lisa Helfman and Lee Haverman, Mike Lowenberg, Rob Wilson, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, Adrian Garcia, Joan Huffman, Teneshia Hudspeth, Honorable Ted Poe, Honorable Julian Ramirez, Honorable Bruce Bain, Kieth Seaous, Brady Crosswell, Adam Peters, and David Key.

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Water Works

Buffalo Bayou gala unveils major trail expansion to honor $100M gift

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Representative Christina Morales, Council Member Mario Castillo, and Representative Gina Hinojosa.

Houston’s beloved waterway had its moment in the moonlight.

The Water Works in Buffalo Bayou Park was the backdrop for the 2025 Buffalo Bayou Partnership Gala. Held in November, the Milestones in Motion soirée evinced that progress looks especially good under twinkling lights and driftwood chandeliers

Chaired by Richard Dawson and Lynn and Ty Kelly, the classy and chill party took full advantage of Houston’s rare perfect fall weather. Upon arrival, attendees sipped cocktails from Giant Texas Distillers and nibbled on City Kitchen Catering hors d’oeuvres while soaking in smooth jazz from Houston Groove Society. Those who arrived early scored exclusive twilight tours of the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a haunting underground space that feels part art gallery, part time capsule.

Guests then ascended to a tented dinner on the Brown Foundation Lawn, styled by Bergner & Johnson with gauzy fabric and organic textures that nodded to the bayou’s earthy charm. As the sun set and the three-course dinner landed on tables, Collin Cox, BBP chair emeritus, welcomed guests and introduced Mayor John Whitmire, who reflected on the city’s ongoing transformation.

Then came the big news.

In honor of a landmark $100 million gift from the Kinder Foundation, BBP unveiled the new Kinder Trail, a vital connector from US 59 to Lockwood Drive, and Kinder Bridge, which will link Japhet Creek Park to Tony Marron Park. Both projects are centerpieces of the nonprofit’s eastward expansion plan.

BBP board members Gaynell Floyd Drexler, Mary Hinojosa Kelly, and Bo Fraga closed the program by sharing personal reflections on Buffalo Bayou’s history and future as a space that has shaped their lives and the city itself — regardless of the way one might pronounce “bayou” or “bayoh.”

Showing their love partnerships matters were Judy Nyquist, Nancy and Rich Kinder, Sis Johnson, Kenneth and Delaina Allen, Meg and Dick Weekley, Lisa Helfman and Lee Haverman, Emily Keeton, Jay Jones and Terry Wayne Jones, Charlie Jenkins, Carrie and Al Pepi, Christian Menefee, Sallie and Bob Wright, Christina and Matt Altenau, Iris Tian and Tim Latimer, and Anne and Tom Olson.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Representative Christina Morales, Council Member Mario Castillo, and Representative Gina Hinojosa.

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